Co-localization of plaque macrophages with calcification is associated with a more vulnerable plaque phenotype and a greater calcification burden in coronary target segments as determined by OCT.

Plaque macrophages co-localize with calcifications in coronary target segments and this is associated with high-risk morphological features including microcalcifications and macrophage infiltration as well as with greater calcification burden. Our data may add to the understanding of the relationship between plaque macrophages, vascular calcification and their clinical impact.